1996 BMW 520 vs. 2006 Cadillac DTS
To start off, 2006 Cadillac DTS is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Cadillac DTS (275 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1996 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 262 kg more than 1996 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 520 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac DTS, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Cadillac DTS (388 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520. 2006 Cadillac DTS has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Cadillac DTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 520 | 2006 Cadillac DTS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 520 | DTS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 4565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1496 kg | 1758 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
